How Do You Handle Restoration of a Flooded Apartment Unit?
Last updated October 25, 2026
The short answer
First Steps After Flooding
Turn off the water supply if you can and shut off electricity in the affected area once it is safe. Remove any standing water with a wet vacuum or mop, then pull up wet rugs, furniture, and boxes. Open windows and run fans to start drying. Wear gloves and boots, and avoid contact with floodwater if it may contain sewage or chemicals.
Document the damage with photos and a list of affected items for your insurance claim. Keep a record of what you moved and where. If the water came from an upstairs unit or a burst pipe, notify the landlord or building manager right away. Your insurer decides what is covered, and policies vary, so check your policy and ask questions.
Drying Out Walls and Floors
Drywall, insulation, and wood flooring can hold water for days, leading to warping and mold. You can cut away small sections of wet drywall and use dehumidifiers to speed drying. However, if water soaked into structural beams or behind tile, the pros use industrial drying equipment that you cannot rent easily.
They often remove baseboards, drill holes in walls, and place air movers to dry the cavity. This process can take several days. In a humid climate like Detroit's, drying takes longer, so patience is key. The pros will check moisture levels to know when the space is truly dry before repairs begin.
- Remove wet carpet and padding promptly.
- Throw out soaked cardboard boxes and paper.
- Clean hard surfaces with soap and water.
- Run dehumidifiers and fans continuously.
- Do not paint or patch until walls are dry.
- Wear a mask if you suspect mold.
Sanitizing and Preventing Mold
Floodwater can leave bacteria and allergens behind. After drying, clean all surfaces with a disinfectant, including floors, walls, and cabinets. Use a solution of bleach and water for non-porous surfaces, but test on a small area first. Discard any porous items that cannot be fully cleaned, like mattresses or upholstered furniture.
Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours, so you need to act fast. If you see or smell mold, call a mold professional for testing and removal. The pros can also apply antimicrobial treatments to prevent future growth. Keep the area ventilated and monitor for musty odors for weeks after.
Restoring Belongings
Electronics, artwork, and antiques need special care after a flood. Water can short-circuit devices and cause corrosion, so do not turn on anything that got wet. Place electronics in a dry area and let them air out, but do not use heat. A professional may be able to salvage some items, but many are not worth the cost.
Artwork and antiques can warp, stain, or grow mold quickly. Gently blot wet items with a clean cloth and let them dry naturally. Do not try to separate stuck paper or frames. Local water damage pros often work with specialists who can restore these items, but the outcome depends on the material and how long it was wet.
- Back up data from wet computers if possible.
- Air-dry books with pages separated.
- Do not use a hair dryer on artwork.
- Freeze wet documents to slow decay.
- Call an electronics pro for any device that was submerged.
Working with Your Landlord
In an apartment, the building owner or manager is usually responsible for structural repairs and shared areas. You may be responsible for your belongings and personal space. Talk to your landlord about who handles what, and keep all communication in writing. If the unit is unlivable, ask about temporary housing options.
Your insurance policy may cover some of your losses, but coverage varies. Check your renter's insurance policy to see what is included. The pros can work with you to dry and clean your unit, but they do not handle claims. You will need to file the claim yourself and provide documentation. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Need help right now?
Call (313) 766-2970 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (313) 766-2970Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to dry out a flooded apartment?
Drying can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on how much water got in and what materials are wet. The pros use industrial equipment to speed up the process, but they cannot rush it. You should stay out until the space is completely dry.
Can I stay in the apartment during restoration?
It depends on how bad the flood was and what is being dried. If only a small area is wet, you might be able to stay, but you need to avoid contact with contaminated water and mold. For major flooding, it is safer to move out until the pros finish.
What should I throw away versus keep?
Throw away anything porous that got wet and cannot be cleaned, like carpet, mattresses, and drywall. Keep hard items like glass, metal, and plastic, but wash and disinfect them. For electronics and artwork, ask a professional before you decide to toss them.
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